Assessing Integrated Human-Machine Interface Design of Space Station Freedom 932040

Space Station Freedom is under development by numerous contractors from the United States, Canada, Europe, and Japan. In order to develop a useable product, each system and element is being designed with the capabilities of the operator in mind. The Space Station will be assembled from these individually-developed systems and elements. To achieve mission objectives, it is critical that the human-machine interface is not only well-designed, but also integrated in an effective manner. For this reason, a disciplined process was developed to assess the integrated human-machine interface design.

Assessments of the human-machine interface design begin with identifying the critical crew tasks which must be performed. If these unique or difficult tasks can be performed by the crew, then it follows that the remaining, more typical, tasks can be successfully performed. For each critical crew task, the information required to perform the task is evaluated. Also, the actions necessary for the crew to complete are identified. From this information, the requirements for each workstation are established, including display and control, viewing, and lighting needs. A comparison of the needed workstation capabilities and the established design is then completed. In this manner, all the design discrepancies are identified and documented. Following validation by design engineers and operations personnel, the issues are prioritized according to a standard methodology. Alternative design solutions are recommended for each issue and resolutions are pursued through working forums and design changes.

By assessing the integrated human-machine interface design using this disciplined process, the customer will be assured that all issues are addressed and that the final design meets the requirements of the user. The resulting human-machine interface design will allow a safe, efficient, and effective operation.